Kennedy Center Moves for Major Name Change to Trump-Kennedy Center, As Stated by White House Statement.
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The governing board of the prestigious performing arts venue has approved a measure to change its name the Trump-Kennedy Center, according to a statement from the White House.
White House Spokesperson Karoline Leavitt declared online that the board's approval was consensus, crediting "the tremendous efforts President Trump has done over the last year in saving the building."
"This is destined to be a truly great team long into the future! The building will no doubt reach new levels of prestige and accomplishment," Leavitt continued.
The planned renaming is expected to be extremely contentious, notably in Washington, D.C., where the center has stood as an iconic landmark since its completion and original naming for President John F. Kennedy.
Recent History of the Venue
Shortly after taking office, President Donald Trump fired all the center's incumbent trustees and appointed loyalists in their positions. The newly constituted board subsequently voted to name Trump the chairman.
The president helped procure approximately $257 million in appropriated money to finance major renovations and operational expenses at the national venue.
Inception
The idea for a Washington-based performing arts center originated in the 1950s. Following the tragic death of President John F. Kennedy, the 35th president, in 1963, the future venue was dedicated to his memory.
This report is being updated. Further context will be provided shortly.
